This Coconut Curry Chicken Meatballs recipe is a flavor-packed dish that blends tender, juicy chicken meatballs with a creamy, spiced coconut curry sauce. It's perfect for a comforting dinner and pairs wonderfully with rice, naan, or even cauliflower rice for a lighter option.

Coconut Curry Chicken Meatballs

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Coconut Curry Chicken Meatballs Recipe

This Coconut Curry Chicken Meatballs recipe is a flavor-packed dish that blends tender, juicy chicken meatballs with a creamy, spiced coconut curry sauce. It’s perfect for a comforting dinner and pairs wonderfully with rice, naan, or even cauliflower rice for a lighter option.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 lb (450g) ground chicken (or turkey)
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for gluten-free)
  • 1 egg, lightly beaten
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro or parsley, finely chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or coconut oil (for frying)

For the Coconut Curry Sauce:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or coconut oil
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 tablespoon red curry paste (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk (full-fat for richer flavor)
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce or coconut aminos (optional, for depth of flavor)
  • 1 teaspoon sugar or honey (optional, to balance flavors)
  • Juice of 1/2 lime
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Garnishes:

  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Sliced red chili or chili flakes (for heat)
  • Lime wedges

To Serve:

  • Steamed jasmine rice, basmati rice, or naan bread
  • Cooked vegetables (e.g., steamed broccoli, sautéed spinach, or roasted carrots)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meatballs:
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, garlic, ginger, cilantro, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined (avoid over-mixing to keep the meatballs tender).
  • Using your hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs. You should get about 16-20 meatballs.

2. Cook the Meatballs:

  • Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Add the meatballs in batches, cooking for 3-4 minutes per side, until browned on the outside (they don’t need to be fully cooked, as they will finish in the sauce). Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Coconut Curry Sauce:

  • In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil if needed. Sauté the onion for 3-4 minutes until softened.
  • Add the garlic, ginger, red curry paste, and turmeric. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
  • Pour in the coconut milk and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Add soy sauce and sugar (if using). Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.

4. Simmer the Meatballs:

  • Return the browned meatballs to the skillet, making sure they are mostly submerged in the sauce.
  • Cover and simmer on low heat for 10-12 minutes, or until the meatballs are fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C) and the sauce has thickened slightly.

5. Finish the Sauce:

  • Stir in the lime juice and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

6. Serve:

  • Serve the meatballs and sauce over steamed rice or with naan bread. Garnish with fresh cilantro, sliced red chili, and lime wedges if desired.

Tips for Perfect Coconut Curry Chicken Meatballs

  1. Make it spicy:
  • Increase the curry paste or add chili flakes for extra heat.

2. Creamy texture:

  • Use full-fat coconut milk for a richer sauce. Light coconut milk works but will be thinner.

3. Gluten-Free Option:

  • Use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs in the meatballs.

4. Vegetable Boost:

  • Add chopped spinach, kale, or diced bell peppers to the sauce for extra nutrition.

5. Make Ahead:

  • Prepare the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them (uncooked or cooked). When ready to use, add them to the sauce and simmer until heated through.

Variations

  1. Vegetarian Version:
  • Replace the chicken meatballs with tofu cubes, chickpea balls, or roasted vegetables (like cauliflower or sweet potatoes).

2. Thai-Inspired:

  • Add fresh lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, or a splash of fish sauce for authentic Thai flavors.

3. Indian-Inspired:

  • Swap red curry paste with garam masala and a pinch of cinnamon and cardamom for an Indian-style curry.

This Coconut Curry Chicken Meatballs recipe is a delightful balance of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors, perfect for a cozy family meal or a dinner party. Enjoy it with your favorite sides and let the bold flavors shine! 🥥🍛✨

This Coconut Curry Chicken Meatballs recipe is a flavor-packed dish that blends tender, juicy chicken meatballs with a creamy, spiced coconut curry sauce. It's perfect for a comforting dinner and pairs wonderfully with rice, naan, or even cauliflower rice for a lighter option.

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